This page is focusing on the practical aspects of using iD products to manage incontinence effectively.

Here is what you will find:

Using Our Products

At Ontex, we understand how important it is to choose the right incontinence products for your loved one. With a variety of options available, selecting the right absorbency, size, and type can make a world of difference in their comfort and your caregiving experience. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate our product range.

Product types

Ontex offers a variety of product types, each designed to meet different levels of incontinence and personal needs:

Liners: Thin, discreet pads designed for light incontinence. Ideal for small leaks and occasional bladder control issues, they fit easily inside regular underwear.

how to apply the products

Pads: Slightly thicker than liners, these are suitable for light to medium incontinence. They provide more absorbency but are still lightweight and discreet.

how to apply the products

Pull-Up Pants: Designed for medium to heavy incontinence, pull-up pants offer high absorbency and are worn like regular underwear, providing comfort and mobility.

how to apply the products

Adult Briefs: These are designed for heavy incontinence and provide maximum absorbency. They have adjustable tabs for a secure fit and are ideal for individuals who need assistance with changing.

how to apply the products

If you’re dealing with incontinence, our Incontinence Explained page can provide valuable context on selecting the right product.


Choose the Right Absorbency

Selecting the right absorbency level ensures your loved one stays comfortable and dry throughout the day and night. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right option based on their level of incontinence:

  • Light Absorbency: Suitable for small leaks and stress incontinence. Products like liners and light pads are ideal for those who only need protection during certain activities, such as exercising or laughing.
  • Medium Absorbency: For more frequent or larger leaks, medium absorbency pads or pull-up pants provide extra protection throughout the day. These products are perfect for those with urge incontinence or those who experience leaks when rushing to the bathroom.
  • Heavy Absorbency: For individuals who have frequent, large leaks or need protection during both day and night, heavy absorbency briefs and pull-up pants offer maximum protection. These are ideal for someone who may be bedridden or unable to get to the bathroom regularly.

It’s important to assess how much leakage your loved one experiences to choose the right absorbency level, ensuring they remain dry and comfortable.


Choose the Right Size

Proper sizing is crucial for comfort, leak prevention, and skin health. Choosing the wrong size can lead to discomfort, leaks, or skin irritation. Here’s how to select the right size:

  • Measure Waist and Hip: To find the best fit, measure both the waist and hips of your loved one, and use the larger of the two measurements to determine the appropriate product size.
  • Size Charts: Each Ontex product comes with a size guide that helps you match the measurements to the correct product. Our products are available in small, medium, large, and extra-large, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect fit.
  • Adjustable Fit: For products like adult briefs with tabs, adjustability allows for a secure fit. Ensure that the product fits snugly but not too tight to avoid discomfort or chafing.

Changing Absorbent Products

Properly changing incontinence products is vital to maintaining comfort, hygiene, and skin health. Here’s a step-by-step guide for changing absorbent products:

  1. Prepare the Area: Before changing, have all your supplies ready—new product, disposable gloves, cleansing wipes, and a disposal bag.
  2. Remove the Soiled Product: Gently remove the soiled product, being careful to minimize mess. Roll up the used product and dispose of it in a waste bag.
  3. Clean the Area: Use unscented, alcohol-free cleansing wipes to clean the skin thoroughly, paying special attention to any folds or areas that may retain moisture. This prevents irritation and infection.
  4. Inspect the Skin: Regularly check for signs of skin irritation, redness, or sores. If you notice any issues, apply a barrier cream to protect the skin.
  5. Apply the New Product: For pull-up pants, simply help your loved one step into the new product as if they were putting on underwear. For briefs, lay the product flat underneath them and secure the tabs to fit snugly around the waist and hips.
  6. Dispose of Waste: Seal the soiled product and any used wipes in a disposal bag, and wash your hands thoroughly.

Hygiene Routine

Maintaining good hygiene is essential for preventing skin irritation, infections, and discomfort. A proper hygiene routine not only protects the skin but also ensures that your loved one feels clean and comfortable. Here are some tips to follow:

  • Regular Changes: Change incontinence products regularly, even if they’re not fully soiled, to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of skin rashes.
  • Skin Care: After each change, use gentle, alcohol-free wipes or cleansing products to clean the skin. Avoid soaps that are too harsh, as they can dry out the skin.
  • Moisturizing: Incontinence can cause dryness or irritation, so it’s important to moisturize the skin using a mild, fragrance-free lotion to maintain skin health.
  • Barrier Creams: For individuals who experience frequent leaks, applying a barrier cream after cleaning can help protect against moisture and reduce the risk of irritation or sores.
  • Laundry Tips: For reusable items like washable pads or protective underwear, make sure to wash them in hot water to kill bacteria and dry them completely before use.

Learn how Taking Care of Yourself can be supported by using our products to simplify daily caregiving tasks.

 

For questions regarding product selection and effectiveness, please visit our FAQ